Full of flavor and wonderfully aromatic, basil, Ocimum<\/em> spp., is one of the easiest herbs to grow. Its pungent, peppery taste with a hint of licorice makes it popular in a variety of cuisines.<\/p>\n This member of the mint, or Lamiaceae family<\/strong><\/a> is an annual herb grown for its flavorful leaves.<\/p>\n Like most herbs, the leaves are best enjoyed fresh. But the bright flavors can also be dried or frozen for winter use.<\/p>\n There are over 160 cultivars to choose from, and all are delicious, fragrant, and many add ornamental interest to the garden.<\/p>\n We link to vendors to help you find relevant products. If you buy from one of our links,\u00a0<\/em>we may earn a commission<\/em><\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n Flavors range from bold and spicy to mildly sweet \u2013 try growing the bold ones for savory dishes, the sweet ones for baked goods, desserts, and ice cream.<\/p>\n The majority are treated as annuals, although in warm, tropical regions a few can be grown as perennials.<\/p>\n This herb is easy to grow and you can propagate basil<\/strong><\/a> from seed<\/a><\/strong>, by cuttings, or purchase nursery starts.<\/p>\n If you need a refresher, our guide to growing basil<\/a><\/strong> has all you need to cultivate this delicious herb at home.<\/p>\n Here are 23 of our favorite cultivars:<\/p>\n \u2018Blue Spice\u2019 is prized for its sweet, vanilla-like fragrance with spicy undertones and showy purple flower spikes that attract pollinators.<\/p>\n This variety grows to about 18 to 24 inches tall and 12 inches wide, and the leaves are excellent for teas, garnishes, or adding a hint of sweetness to summer dishes.<\/p>\n \u2018Blue Spice\u2019<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n You can find \u2018Blue Spice\u2019 seeds available at Eden Brothers<\/a><\/strong> in a variety of packet sizes.<\/p>\n \u2018Boxwood\u2019 features small leaves that keep a perfect, shrub-like form even in the heat of summer \u2013 just like a boxwood plant<\/a><\/strong>. This variety grows to a mature height of 12 inches, with a 12- to 16-inch spread.<\/p>\n \u2018Boxwood\u2019<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Wonderful for containers, edging, and knot gardens, the strong flavor is superb in pesto.<\/p>\n You can find packets of 100 seeds or three live plants available at Burpee<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n With deep red flower clusters rising above green, aromatic foliage, \u2018Cardinal\u2019 is as ornamental as it is useful in the kitchen.<\/p>\n \u2018Cardinal\u2019 reaches 18 to 30 inches tall and about 12 inches wide, and the blossoms are edible as well as eye-catching, making this a dual-purpose basil for herb and flower gardens alike.<\/p>\n \u2018Cardinal\u2019<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n You can find seeds in a variety of packet sizes available at Eden Brothers<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n \u2018Cinnamon\u2019 is a sweet-flavored cultivar with a distinctive cinnamon taste that\u2019s delicious in baked goods, jellies, and vinegars.<\/p>\n \u2018Cinnamon\u2019<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Also known as Mexican spice basil, this cultivar has narrow leaves, dark colored stems, and pretty purple flowers that add great visual appeal.<\/p>\n Growing to a mature height of 12-18 inches with a similar spread, \u2018Cinnamon\u2019 makes a lovely addition to your container garden or flower beds.<\/p>\n Find packets of seeds in a variety of sizes available at Eden Brothers<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n \u2018Dark Opal\u2019 has wonderful deep purple leaves and pinky-lilac flowers that give it great ornamental value. The flavor is anise-based with a hint of ginger and it can be used in savory or sweet dishes.<\/p>\n Brought to market by Ferry-Morse in the 1950s, \u2018Dark Opal\u2019 was a winner of the All-America Selections Award in the flower category in 1962.<\/p>\n \u2018Dark Opal\u2019<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Delightful in containers, mixed beds, or anywhere you want to attract pollinators, this variety grows to a mature height of 14 inches in a compact, bushy form.<\/p>\n Find seeds in a variety of packet sizes available at Eden Brothers<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n Learn more about growing \u2018Dark Opal\u2019<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n An All-America Selections winner, \u2018Dolce Fresca\u2019 maintains a dense, bushy habit that doesn\u2019t sprawl, even after repeated harvests.<\/p>\n Plants reach 12 to 18 inches tall and wide and produce glossy leaves with a classic sweet basil flavor, perfect for container or small-space gardens.<\/p>\n \u2018Dolce Fresca\u2019<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n If \u2018Dolce Fresca\u2019 sounds appealing, you can find seeds available at Eden Brothers<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n \u2018Emerald Towers\u2019 is a tall, multi-branched Genovese type with a tidy columnar habit that produces an outstanding harvest. It has a full licorice taste and a scent of spicy cloves.<\/p>\n \u2018Emerald Towers\u2019<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n A generous herb in containers or in the ground, give these plants plenty of space to grow into as they can reach a mature height of 24 to 36 inches with a spread of eight to 12 inches.<\/p>\n You can find 100 seeds or a set of three plants available at Burpee<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n Genovese is the traditional heirloom Italian type with a pronounced anise flavor, sweet clove fragrance, and large, lustrous leaves.<\/p>\n This variety grows to a mature height of 16 inches tall, with a spread of 12 inches.<\/p>\n Genovese<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n A must-have for the kitchen garden, it is perfect for pesto, fresh salads, and all things savory.<\/p>\n Seeds are available by the packet or in bulk at Eden Brothers<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n Or get a jump on the growing season with a set of three plants available at Burpee<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n Find more info on growing Genovese basil here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n The Greek type, O. basilicum<\/em> var. minimum<\/em> is a compact variety with small leaves, tiny white flowers, and a neat, globular growth habit that makes it attractive in containers, edging, or rockeries.<\/p>\n O. basilicum<\/em> var. minimum<\/em><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n It has a deeply spicy fragrance and strong flavor that\u2019s best used in salad dressings, sauces, soups, and stews.<\/p>\n Perfect for container gardens, this dwarf variety grows to a mature height of just eight inches, with a similar spread.<\/p>\n You can find packets of seeds in a variety of sizes at True Leaf Market<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n Learn more about planting and growing Greek basil<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n This classic cultivar has the largest leaves of all basil plants. With a sweet and mild flavor, this variety is versatile in the kitchen and makes a delicious pesto.<\/p>\n Italian Large Leaf<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n Plants grow to a mature height of 24-30 inches, with a 12-inch spread. Plant in containers, in a sunny spot in your herb garden, or on a windowsill.<\/p>\n Find seeds in a variety of packet sizes at True Leaf Market<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n A key ingredient in Indonesian cuisine, the lemon variety, O. basilicum<\/em> var. citriodorum<\/em>, is a hybrid with a fresh lemon scent and sweet-tart flavor. Plants grow to a mature height of 20-24 inches, with a 12-inch spread.<\/p>\n Lemon<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n It\u2019s popular eaten fresh in salads and wraps or incorporated into curries, soups, stews, and stir-fries.<\/p>\n Find packets of seeds in a variety of sizes available at Eden Brothers<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n This Italian heirloom (O. basilicum crispum<\/em>) is easy to spot thanks to its oversized, crinkled leaves that are mild and sweet.<\/p>\n Growing 18 to 24 inches tall and wide, it\u2019s ideal for using in wraps, layering in sandwiches, or adding bulk to pestos without overpowering other flavors.<\/p>\n Lettuce Leaf<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n You can find lettuce leaf basil seeds available at Eden Brothers<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n Lime plants have a light, floral-citrusy flavor<\/a><\/strong> and fragrance \u2013 ideal for adding a touch of zest to beverages, salad dressings, sauces, and desserts.<\/p>\n Lime<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n A lovely container plant wherever the tangy fragrance can be enjoyed, this cultivar grows to a mature height of 16 to 24 inches, with a 12-inch spread.<\/p>\n Packets of seeds in a variety of sizes are available at Eden Brothers<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n O. basilicum crispum<\/em> \u2018Monstruoso,\u2019 aka \u00a0\u2018Mammoth,\u2019 is a lettuce leaf cultivar that features huge savoyed leaves with ruffled edges and uniform growth.<\/p>\n \u2018Mammoth\u2019<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n It has a spicy clove fragrance and a sweetly pungent flavor similar to Genovese, but stronger.<\/p>\n Perfect for use in Italian recipes or for pesto, \u2018Mammoth\u2019 grows to a mature height of 16 inches, with a 12- to 16-inch spread.<\/p>\n You can find packets of seeds in a variety of sizes at Eden Brothers<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n Minette is a compact, small-leaved Greek cultivar, O. basilicum<\/em> var minimum<\/em>, with a mounding habit that\u2019s adorable as an edging plant, in containers, or in knot gardens.<\/p>\n Minette<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n With a sweet anise flavor and scent of cloves, this variety grows to a mature height of just 10 inches with a comparable spread, and it forms a beautiful spherical shape.<\/p>\n You can purchase seeds at Eden Brothers<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n \u2018Nufar\u2019 was the first fusarium-resistant basil introduced, and it remains a reliable choice for gardeners in humid climates.<\/p>\n This Genovese type grows 18 to 24 inches tall and 12 inches wide, producing large, glossy leaves with the classic flavor cooks expect for pestos and sauces.<\/p>\n \u2018Nufar\u2019<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n You can find \u2018Nufar\u2019 seeds available from High Mowing Organic Seeds<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n Prospera\u00ae Red is a hybrid that pairs downy mildew resistance with striking deep purple foliage.<\/p>\n Compact but productive, plants grow 20 to 24 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide, offering both ornamental appeal and dependable flavor through the season.<\/p>\n Prospera\u00ae Red<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n You can find seeds for Prospera\u00ae Red available at High Mowing Organic Seeds<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n \u2018Purple Petra\u2019 produces glossy, deep-purple leaves that bring dramatic color to beds and containers.<\/p>\n Reaching 18 to 24 inches tall and 12 to 16 inches wide, the plants offer a mild, slightly sweet basil flavor that shines in infused oils, vinegars, and garnishes.<\/p>\n \u2018Purple Petra\u2019<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n You can find \u2018Purple Petra\u2019 seeds available at Botanical Interests<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n This purple-leafed variety has a stronger, spicier flavor than many other colored basils.<\/p>\n \u2018Red Rubin\u2019 grows 18 to 24 inches tall and 12 to 16 inches wide, with dark, flat leaves that stand out in the garden and add bold taste to herb butters, vinegars, and sauces.<\/p>\n \u2018Red Rubin\u2019<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Seeds are available from True Leaf Market<\/a><\/strong> in a variety of packet sizes.<\/p>\n Read more about growing \u2018Red Rubin\u2019 basil here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n O. basilicum<\/em> var. thyrsiflora<\/em>, \u2018Siam Queen\u2019 is a Thai basil variety<\/a><\/strong> with a sweet licorice flavor that\u2019s rewarding in the kitchen and as an ornamental.<\/p>\n This heirloom type has lush green leaves and purple stems, and it grows to a mature height of 10-24 inches, with a similar spread.<\/p>\n \u2018Siam Queen\u2019<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n \u2018Siam Queen\u2019 was an All-America Selections Winner in the vegetable category in 1997.<\/p>\n Use it to flavor curries, soups, and stir-fries but sow enough to allow some plants to bloom \u2013 the purple flower heads and pale pink blooms are gorgeous!<\/p>\n Packets of seeds in a variety of sizes are available at Eden Brothers<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n This compact basil forms a tidy, rounded mound covered in petite leaves that pack plenty of flavor.<\/p>\n Plants grow to about eight to 10 inches tall and wide, making them a natural fit for containers, borders, or even as an edible alternative to boxwood.<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Best-Basil-Varieties-Feature.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n23 Favorite Basil Varieties for Your Herb Garden<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
1. Blue Spice<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Blue-Spice-Basil.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n2. Boxwood<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Boxwood.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n3. Cardinal<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Cardinal-Basil.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n4. Cinnamon<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Cinnamon.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n5. Dark Opal<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Dark-Opal.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n6. Dolce Fresca<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Dolce-Fresca.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n7. Emerald Towers<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Emerald-Towers.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n8. Genovese<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Genovese.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n9. Greek<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Greek.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n10. Italian Large Leaf<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Italian-Large-Leaf.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n11. Lemon<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Lemon.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n12. Lettuce Leaf<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Lettuce-Leaf-Basil.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n13. Lime<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Lime.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n14. Mammoth<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Mammoth.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n15. Minette<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Minette.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n16. Nufar<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Nufar-Basil.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n17. Prospera Red<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Prospera-Red.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n18. Purple Petra<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Purple-Petra-Basil.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n19. Red Rubin<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Red-Rubin-Basil.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n20. Siam Queen<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/Siam-Queen.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n21. Spicy Globe<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/gardenerspath.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Spicy-Globe.jpg\")